7 Apr 2017

Speculation linking Liverpool with a stunning move for 'world-class' Real Madrid star James Rodriguez, continues to intensify, and it looks like the Reds may be able to sign the Colombian maestro on the cheap.

When asked on Monday if 'Liverpool are keen on James Rodriguez', Spanish pundit Balague told Sky Sports:

"Of course they are. Liverpool are realistic, and they realise James is looking for a different type of team. He knows Real want to get rid of him. He has offers from England".

Today, Balague expanded upon his comments, and reiterated that Liverpool are keen on a deal:

"Madrid want to sell [Rodriguez] and €35m would do it. Manchester United and Liverpool want him, but United have the edge if it comes down to those two clubs. Jorge Mendes is his agent"

€35m for Rodriguez is an absolute bargain, but realistically, it seems very unlikely that Madrid will take such a massive loss on a player who cost €70m.

€35m is more than 50% less than Rodriguez's Madrid transfer fee, and unless he is carrying a career-threatening injury, or is suffering some major personal meltdown, there's surely no way he'll be allowed to leave so cheaply...?

Despite the hiccup vs. Bournemouth, Liverpool are still well-placed to finish in the top four, and Champions League football means that - in theory - Klopp will have an increased chance of signing players like Rodriguez, and for €35m, the Reds should pull out all the stops to seal the deal.